The Saskatchewan Teachers' Federation is offering its fullest support and solidarity to colleagues in the Alberta Teachers' Association following the passage of legislation used to end their legal strike action and impose a collective agreement that was overwhelmingly turned down by teachers. This is an unprecedented act that disrespects teachers and is an affront to teachers' rights across the country.
By passing the Back to School Act in the early hours this morning, the Alberta government has set a deeply troubling precedent for teachers in this country, and labour relations in general. Utilizing the notwithstanding clause to obstruct teachers' right to collective bargaining and cut off future legal challenges undermines the principles of democracy that our constitution is meant to protect.
Teachers in this country are united. When there is an attack on the rights of teachers in any jurisdiction or province, we have one another's backs. Saskatchewan's 14,000 teachers join Alberta's 51,000 and hundreds of thousands more across the country in opposing this extraordinary overreach by the Government of Alberta.
Saskatchewan teachers are part of the growing call from Canadian teachers, labour groups and concerned supporters, asking the Alberta government to rescind this legislation and return to bargaining with the ATA in good faith.
For more information
2317 Arlington Ave
Saskatoon Saskatchewan
Canada S7J 2H8
www.stf.sk.ca
